BMX riders compete nationally in East Moline

A high-stakes BMX race took place in East Moline as riders competed to advance to a Grand National event.

The USA BMX National happened Friday, July 19 through Sunday, July 21, 2013 at the East Moline BMX Speedway.

Over 6,000 people came to town for the event; it’s the first time it’s ever been hosted in the Quad Cities. Riders of all ages are racing and hoping to win points to advance to the Grand Nationals in Oklahoma, which will take place in November.

“There are 380 tracks across the country,” said track operator, Paul DePauw. “There’s 30 national weekends so, you know, last weekend this show was in Las Vegas. They turned around and drove here so it’s an honor to be on that national schedule, to bring these people in.”

DePauw said there were over 30 states being represented at the event.

News 8 viewer, Kristen P. submitted this video from the BMX National in East Moline.